Woodlawn Railroad Embankment On Basin Run Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

The Woodlawn Railroad Embankment on Basin Run, also known as the Bainbridge Railroad-Colora Spur, is a historic structure located in Cecil County, Maryland.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and stretches for 1800 feet along Basin Run. With a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet, it serves as a critical component of the local water resource infrastructure.

Despite its age, the Woodlawn Railroad Embankment is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor. The dam has a high hazard potential, making it essential for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. The risk assessment has categorized it as moderate, highlighting the need for proactive risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and maintenance of structures like the Woodlawn Railroad Embankment on Basin Run are crucial to ensuring the sustainable management of our water resources. By staying informed about the condition of such infrastructure and advocating for necessary improvements, we can contribute to the protection of our local ecosystems and communities in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Basin Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

450

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.